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Comfort and care instructions

Sedation dentistry in Herriman

If the thought of a dental visit makes your heart race, you are not alone. Sedation can help you feel calm so you can get the care you need.

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What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry uses medicine to help you relax during dental care. With the lighter types, you stay awake and can answer questions, but you feel calm and time seems to pass quickly. You are still numbed for the work itself, so sedation is about easing worry, not blocking pain.

  • Your dentist reviews your health first
  • The level is matched to you and your visit
  • Some types mean you need a ride home

Who sedation can help

Sedation is not just for people with strong fear. It may help if you:

  • Feel anxious or have put off care because of nerves
  • Have a strong gag reflex
  • Have trouble getting numb or sitting still for a long time
  • Are bothered by the sounds, smells or needles at the dentist
  • Need a longer visit, such as wisdom tooth removal or several fillings at once

Sedation is not right for everyone. Some health conditions, medicines and pregnancy can affect which options are safe. Your dentist goes over your health history and talks with you before choosing a type. Tell us about every medicine and supplement you take.

Sedation options and what to expect

Laughing gas (nitrous oxide)

You breathe it through a small mask over your nose. It helps you feel light and relaxed within a few minutes. It wears off soon after the mask comes off, and many people can drive themselves home.

Oral sedation

You take a pill before your visit. You will feel calm and sleepy but can still hear and respond to our team. The effects last for several hours, so you need an adult to drive you home and stay with you.

For more complex care, ask your dentist which deeper options may be available to you.

Your visit, step by step

  1. Planning. We review your health and choose the right option together. You get instructions on eating, drinking and medicines. Our pre-operative care page covers how to get ready.
  2. During care. Our team watches your breathing and comfort the whole time.
  3. Recovery. You rest until you are steady. We give your driver written home care instructions.

After sedation

  • Rest for the rest of the day if you had oral sedation.
  • Do not drive, use machines, sign important papers or drink alcohol until the next day, or as your dentist directs.
  • Start with fluids and soft foods once you feel steady.
  • Follow the care steps for the treatment you had. See our post-operative care page.

Call us if you feel sick to your stomach for a long time, very drowsy or have any concerns.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about sedation dentistry

Is sedation dentistry safe?
For most healthy people, the sedation types used in a dental office are considered safe when given by a trained team. That is why we check your health history and watch you closely during care.
Will I be asleep?
Not with laughing gas or most oral sedation. You stay awake but relaxed. Some people feel drowsy and remember little of the visit.
Can my child have sedation?
Sometimes. It depends on the child's age, health and the care needed. Talk with your dentist about what is right for your child.
Does insurance cover sedation?
Coverage varies. Some plans cover it for certain treatments, while others do not. We check your plan and go over any cost before your visit.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Tooth Extractions

Careful removal of a tooth that cannot be saved, plus a plan to replace it if you want one.

About tooth extractions

Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

Call (385) 481-6738Get directions